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Trishuli River Rafting is one of Nepal’s most popular and accessible river adventures, making it the perfect whitewater experience for beginners, families, and thrill-seekers alike. Located conveniently between Kathmandu and Pokhara, the Trishuli River offers a thrilling mix of scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and gentle to moderate rapids that provide excitement without being overwhelming. Whether you're a first-time rafter or someone looking for a quick outdoor escape, this trip is designed to be safe, fun, and easily customizable.
The rafting journey typically begins from Charaudi or Baireni, both just a few hours' drive from Kathmandu. As you push off from the banks, you’re immediately immersed in a beautiful river valley flanked by rolling green hills, suspension bridges, and terraced farmlands. The river’s Class II–III+ rapids, such as “Ladies’ Delight,” “Upset,” and “Surprise,” offer just the right amount of thrill for beginners while still being fun for experienced rafters. Between rapids, you’ll float calmly past local villages, forested canyons, and even spot monkeys and birds on the riverbanks.
What makes Trishuli River Rafting truly beginner-friendly is its accessibility and safety. The trip ranges from 1 to 3 days, and all itineraries include professional rafting guides, safety gear, and a comprehensive briefing. No previous rafting experience is needed, and the river’s volume is manageable year-round except during the peak monsoon season.
The trip usually concludes at Kurintar, where you can either continue your journey to Pokhara, return to Kathmandu, or even stop at Chitwan National Park for a wildlife safari. With flexible itineraries, family-friendly rapids, and stunning scenery, Trishuli River Rafting is a must-do adventure in 2025 for anyone wanting to taste Nepal’s whitewater magic without committing to an intense expedition.
Beginner-friendly Class II–III+ rapids like “Upset” and “Surprise”
Scenic gorges and lush hillsides along the riverbanks
Easy access from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan
Flexible itineraries: 1-day to 3-day trips with camping or resort stays
Cultural encounters with local communities and glimpses of rural Nepal
Optional side trips to Manakamana Temple via cable car
Trishuli River Rafting is considered moderate in difficulty, making it ideal for first-time rafters. The river features a mix of gentle stretches and exciting rapids, ranging from Class II to Class III+, providing an exhilarating but manageable rafting experience.
This adventure is suitable for:
Beginners with no prior rafting experience
Families with children aged 10 and above
Solo travelers, couples, and groups seeking a short adventure
Nature enthusiasts interested in scenic landscapes and wildlife
Travelers en route to Pokhara or Chitwan looking for an active stopover
Your adventure begins with a scenic 3-hour drive from Kathmandu to Charaudi, a popular rafting put-in point on the Trishuli River. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your rafting guides and crew for a comprehensive safety briefing covering paddling techniques, commands, and rescue procedures. After gearing up, the real fun begins. You’ll hit the river and immediately face thrilling rapids like “Ladies’ Delight” and “Upset”, two of the most exciting Class III rapids on the Trishuli. The river carves through narrow gorges and open valleys, with waves crashing and adrenaline high. After about 3 hours on the water, you'll arrive at Fishling, where you’ll unwind at a riverside camp or eco-resort, surrounded by nature. Enjoy a fresh meal, relax by the bonfire, or swim in the river before calling it a night.
Wake up to the sounds of the river and a hearty breakfast before getting back on the water. Today’s section of the Trishuli River is calmer, perfect for enjoying the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes—green hills, riverbanks dotted with villages, and suspension bridges overhead. While there are fewer rapids, you’ll still encounter fun wave trains and a few surprises to keep the adventure alive. After around 2 hours of rafting, you’ll reach Kuringhat, the take-out point. Once off the river, you’ll dry off, enjoy a well-deserved lunch, and then begin your drive back to Kathmandu (or onward to Pokhara or Chitwan, depending on your travel plan). You’ll leave with awesome memories of whitewater excitement, riverside camping, and a taste of Nepal’s natural beauty.
The best time to do Trishuli River rafting for beginners is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons provide ideal water levels, warm temperatures, and clear weather, making the rafting experience safe, scenic, and enjoyable for those new to white-water adventure.
Trishuli River rafting is moderately easy, featuring Class II to III+ rapids. These are thrilling but manageable, making it perfect for beginners with basic fitness and a desire for fun. The rapids are exciting but not too technical, and most trips are accompanied by professional safety kayakers and certified guides.
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Charaudi (~3–4 hours), begin rafting through scenic gorges, stop near Fishling for lunch and an optional overnight stay
Day 2: Continue rafting to Kuringhat, enjoy more rapids, then return to Kathmandu or Pokhara by evening
The route offers lush riverside landscapes, waterfalls, and small hill villages along the way.
Bring essentials like:
Quick-dry T-shirts and shorts/swimwear
Waterproof sandals or river shoes
Sunscreen, sunglasses with strap, and a wide-brimmed hat
Warm fleece or jacket for evenings (especially in spring/fall)
Personal toiletries and a towel
Optional: waterproof camera or GoPro
Altitude sickness is not a concern on the Trishuli River, as the entire route is at low elevation (~400–600m). Still, it’s wise to stay hydrated, use sun protection, and get enough rest after the trip to avoid fatigue from extended sun and water exposure.
While most trips are camping-based, there are simple lodges and riverside camps near Fishling and Kuringhat. These offer clean rooms, local meals, and scenic locations beside the river. Most rafting companies bring their own tents and organize full-service campfire dinners and outdoor breakfasts.
No special permits are needed for Trishuli rafting. Your rafting operator handles all logistics and safety regulations, including insurance, government fees, and rescue arrangements, if applicable.
Group rafting is safer, more fun, and cost-efficient. Rafting companies require a minimum number of participants (usually 4–6 per raft), so solo travelers can join group departures. Sharing the experience with others adds to the enjoyment and ensures teamwork on the rapids.
The best time to do Trishuli River Rafting is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer ideal water levels, comfortable weather, and safe conditions for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Conditions: Warm days, clear skies, and moderate river flow due to snowmelt.
Best for: First-time rafters looking for excitement without extreme conditions.
Highlights: Lush greenery, wildflowers, and good visibility.
Conditions: Post-monsoon stability with clear skies and moderate rapids.
Best for: Groups, solo travelers, or families wanting an all-around safe and fun rafting experience.
Highlights: Excellent views, pleasant temperatures, and dry trails.
Not ideal for most. The river swells due to heavy rainfall, creating powerful Class III+ to Class IV rapids.
Only recommended for: Experienced rafters or thrill-seekers under the guidance of expert operators.
Risks: Strong currents, floating debris, and unpredictable conditions.
Rafting is still possible, but expect cooler air and water temperatures.
Best for: Rafters who want quieter rivers and don’t mind layering up.
Tip: Morning trips are colder—opt for midday departures.
Overall best seasons: Late March to May and late September to November for optimum safety, comfort, and scenic value.
Wondering what to pack for Trishuli River Rafting in different seasons? Here's a helpful breakdown to ensure you're prepared, whether you're doing a day trip or an overnight riverside adventure.
Quick-dry clothing (avoid cotton): shorts, swimwear, synthetic T-shirts
Warm layers: fleece or light jacket for cooler mornings/evenings (especially in winter and spring)
Rain jacket or windbreaker: helpful during sudden weather shifts
Dry clothes and towel for after the trip
Secure water shoes or sports sandals (with back straps)
Avoid flip-flops or shoes that easily come off
Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
Sunglasses with strap (to avoid losing them in rapids)
Sun hat or cap with chin strap
Personal toiletries and wet wipes
Medications for allergies, nausea, or personal use
Reusable water bottle
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Power bank
Headlamp (if staying overnight at a riverside camp)
Your rafting operator provides helmets, paddles, life jackets, dry barrels, tents, and meals if you're on a multi-day package.
Accommodation on the Trishuli River varies depending on your trip type—day trip, overnight camp, or extended rafting itinerary.
Often used for overnight rafting trips
Located along quiet riverbanks with scenic views
Tents, foam mattresses, sleeping bags, and meals are provided by your outfitter
Bonfire evenings, stargazing, and riverside breakfasts enhance the outdoor experience
Found in towns like Kurintar, Mugling, and Malekhu
Basic but clean rooms, often twin-sharing with shared bathrooms
Meals include dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, and local snacks
Hot showers, charging ports, and Wi-Fi may be available at an extra cost
Some rafting trips offer mid-range resort stays along the river
Comfortable rooms, landscaped gardens, swimming pools, and riverside patios
Ideal for those seeking luxury after an adventurous day
🍽️ All meals during rafting trips are usually included in your package, and special dietary needs can be accommodated if requested in advance.
One of the best things about this trip is its ease of access and minimal paperwork.
No special trekking or national park permit is needed for Trishuli River Rafting.
Your rafting operator handles all legal requirements including group registration and local coordination.
A valid passport or government-issued ID
Useful for identification at checkpoints or lodges
No visa extensions or entry passes are required for rafting alone
If you're combining rafting with Annapurna trekking or visiting protected zones, then ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card may be needed.
Expense | Approx. Cost (USD) |
Transportation (round trip) | $10–$20 |
Rafting package (guide, gear, meals) | $30–$100 |
Accommodation (if overnight) | $20–$40 |
Personal expenses and tips | $10–$20 |
Total Estimated Cost | $70–$180 |
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